have designs on

Contrive a secret plot or scheme, especially with selfish motives. For example, I think he has designs on my job, or Mary has designs on her sister's boyfriend. This term uses design in the sense of “a crafty plan,” a usage dating from about 1700.

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This was thrilling, progressive football that will set the standard for every side in Europe who have designs on the Champions League.

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If the Senedd is an attractive option, would any of them have designs on leadership?

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Even in this up and down season, the province will have designs on winning this trophy but it's a tough assignment first up with an away day in France.

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Jimmy Chérizier may well have designs on becoming Haiti's leader himself, as do a number of others with criminal pasts and questionable credentials.

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They’re headed to the Big Ten next year, but before they do, they have designs on flying to Las Vegas in December for the Pac-12 title game.